Is it permissible to pray Istikhara concerning a matter over which there is a difference of opinion between permissibility and prohibition?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The position of the layman regarding matters of difference is to ask reliable scholars. If the fatwas contradict each other, then he may choose the more cautious, the easier, or be given a choice. If the ambiguity persists after asking the scholars, there is no objection to performing (prayer for guidance), because it is for matters where the correct course of action is unknown. Indeed, Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) performed Istikhara regarding a jurisprudential matter that was unclear to him. A student of knowledge, however, should strive to ascertain the correct view and perform Istikhara.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/142391
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 142391
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy